Plan a safer beach visit
Beach Safety & Patrols
Practical safety guidance for Main Beach, including patrol flags, rip currents, changing conditions and where to find official beach information.
In an emergency, call 000
Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if someone is in danger, missing in the water or needs urgent medical help. Give the operator your location as clearly as possible and follow their instructions.
Main Beach at Lakes Entrance
Main Beach is reached across the footbridge from Lakes Entrance. It is an open-ocean beach where waves, deep troughs and rip currents can create hazardous swimming conditions, even when the water looks inviting.
Patrol dates and times vary by season, weather and volunteer availability. Flags on the beach—not an old timetable or social post—show where lifesavers are currently supervising swimmers.
- Safest place to swim
- Between the red and yellow flags
- If no flags are up
- Do not enter the water
- Emergency
- Call 000
- Official beach guide
- Main Beach on Beachsafe
Only when flags are displayed and the beach is patrolled.
Choose a patrolled beach and check Beachsafe before travelling.
For immediate danger or a life-threatening situation.
Before entering the water
- Stop and look for red and yellow flags, safety signs and instructions from lifesavers.
- Ask a lifesaver about current conditions if you are unsure.
- Never swim alone, and supervise children within arm's reach around the water.
- Avoid alcohol before swimming and know your own ability.
- If caught in a rip, stay calm, conserve energy, raise an arm for help and follow lifesaver instructions.
Next step
Ready for the next step?
Join, renew, donate or contact the club and a volunteer will point you in the right direction.